Status Quo Orders In A Fort Lauderdale Divorce: What They Are And How They Affect You
If you are going through a divorce in Fort Lauderdale, you may hear the term “status quo order” and wonder what it means. These orders play a significant role in how both spouses must conduct themselves financially and as parents from the moment they file for a divorce.
Understanding what a status quo order requires and the consequences of violations is essential to protecting your rights. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney explains what you need to know.
How Status Quo Orders Work in Broward County Divorces
When you file a divorce petition in Florida, the court automatically issues a status quo order as part of the initial case paperwork. According to Broward County Administrative Order AO-2019-15-UFC, this order takes effect immediately and governs how both spouses must behave while the divorce is pending.
Its purpose is to preserve stability, protect both parties’ financial interests, and prevent either spouse from taking actions that could harm the other or their children. Common requirements in Broward County status quo orders:
- Both parties must continue paying household bills, such as the mortgage or rent, utilities, and insurance premiums.
- Neither party can sell, transfer, or dispose of marital property and assets without the other’s consent or a court order.
- Both parents must maintain the existing child custody and time-sharing arrangements.
- Neither spouse may cancel or alter existing insurance policies.
- Opening new lines of credit or taking on significant new debt is restricted and requires either mutual consent or court approval.
Violating any of these provisions can result in serious consequences, including contempt of court findings, fines, and sanctions that may affect the outcome of your Fort Lauderdale divorce.
What Happens If Your Spouse Violates a Status Quo Order
If your spouse ignores the status quo order by draining accounts, selling marital property, or cutting off your access to funds, it’s important to act quickly. Steps to take if you believe your spouse has violated the order include:
- Document the violation with bank statements, screenshots, receipts, or any other evidence.
- File a motion for contempt with the Broward County family court.
- Request emergency relief if the violation is serious and immediate, such as a spouse attempting to remove children from the area or rapidly depleting shared accounts.
- Contact an experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney as soon as possible, since the court takes status quo violations seriously.
A status quo order is only as effective as the willingness of both parties to follow it. Taking prompt legal action can prevent further damage to your finances or parental rights.
Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Divorce Attorney Today
Status quo orders establish important ground rules from the start of your Broward County divorce, and violations can have lasting consequences on your finances and your relationship with your children. At The Law Office of Sandra Bonfiglio, P.A., we help clients understand their rights and take swift action when needed. Call or contact our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney online today to schedule a consultation.
Sources:
browardclerk.org/Divisions/Family
flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2025/61.13
